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I’ve been feeling pretty mellowed out these days. At work, on the train, putting on my makeup, cooking — all involve me listening to soft tunes and just overall taking it easy. I’ve always been into calming jives, but it seems a little elevated lately, and I’m rolling with it.

If you’ve been feeling similarly, then this playlist is for you. A combination of twang-y folk/indie guitar, and a little bit of synth-y sounds as well. Speaking of which, did you guys know that Vanessa Carlton came out with an indie album last year? I just discovered it yesterday and can’t stop listening. You can check out one of her songs on my playlist as well.

After reading a recent post from Julia of Lemon Stripes about the importance of down time, we too thought it was a great topic to talk about. And with chillier weather comes semi hibernation mode (before turning into full hibernation mode), and while it might seem a little boring at first, taking time for yourself is super important. Here are our ways of taking time for ourselves…

01. Creating to-do lists
Oh I know, sooo relaxing right?! It might seem daunting at first, but 2 of my favorite feelings come after getting my life in order – 1. the gratifying feeling of getting organized and being in control of your situation & 2. the inspiration that comes from making plans and putting ideas on paper. Make separate lists so things don’t become too overwhelming. Think day-to-day todo, long term goals and aspirational projects. It will recharge your feeling of self.

02. Going to the movies aloneThe feeling of total control over what you see, when and where you see it is a very under rated alone time activity. Sure you could pull up something good up on Netflix, but you should really think about treating yo self once in awhile to a good old fashioned movie date. Maybe even preceded or followed up with some dinner or ice cream ;).

03. Experimenting with a new hobby (even if you’re slightly embarrassed)This is the time to take those risks! Even if you feel a little self conscious, we can almost guarantee that no one is watching or judging! Usually people are too wrapped up in their own insecurities to even notice. Give that hot-yoga class a try, sign up for a 5K, give a new art or craft a shot (jewelry making, painting, photography, music), try cooking or baking something you’ve never made before, whatever strikes your interest. It’s okay to feel challenged, it’ll make you feel that much more accomplished afterward.

04. Pamper yourselfThis can be a little tough, because sometimes we feel like we may not deserve to spoil ourselves, but trust us, you do! You work hard, and it’s alright to do something small for yourself to make you feel your best. Don’t get all crazy and max out your credit card or anything — everything in moderation! If you’ve been saving and eyeing that pair of shoes for like two years, get the shoes! This can even be smaller things like getting your nails done, a fresh hair cut, an amazing smelling face-mask, whatever brings you into your element and makes you feel as wonderful as you are.

05. Quiet timeWe all struggle with this one, and we’ve all heard it before — turn off the tv, phone, iPad, computer, any and everything with a screen. It’s so important for our personal well being to give ourselves at least an hour to get away from the technology and consumes our daily lives, and just chill, man. This may make us feel a little anxious at first, but that’s to be expected — you’re basically going through withdrawal. Unwind with a book or magazine, straighten up your apartment, use it as a time to decompress and do something just for yourself.